Arkansas football rounds out backfield with former four-star Michigan RB

Michigan running back transfer Jasper Parker has signed with Arkansas, sources told analyst Matt Zenitz, with the news learned by CBSSports. The move was first reported on social media by college football insider Chris Hummer.

Parker, a former four-star recruit in the Class of 2025, entered the transfer portal after one season in Ann Arbor and will now look to reset his career in Fayetteville with the Razorbacks.

Jasper Parker: Michigan’s Overlooked Four-Star Running Back

Standing 6-foot, 205 pounds, Parker signed with Michigan out of Gretna (La.) Archbishop Shaw High School, where he was one of the top backs in the state. As a senior in 2024, Parker put together a standout season, totaling 1,612 all-purpose yards and 22 touchdowns. That production included 1,464 rushing yards, 148 receiving yards, and several key performances during the playoff run.

As a freshman at Michigan, Parker saw limited but encouraging action in a crowded backfield. He finished the season with 25 carries for 93 yards and two touchdowns, flashing the physical running style and downhill burst that made him such a highly regarded recruit. Right now he's a little more spped than power but he will have time to fill out his frame over time.

Ultimately, opportunity played a major role in Parker’s decision to transfer. Michigan’s running back room remains stacked, with elite talent already in place and even more on the way, including the expected arrival of five-star running back Savion Hiter. With a loaded depth chart and ongoing changes within the program, Parker felt the timing was right to seek a clearer path to playing time elsewhere.

That opportunity could come quickly at Arkansas.

How Arkansas Plans to Use Jasper Parker

The Razorbacks have been aggressive in rebuilding their roster following significant offseason turnover, with multiple players departing through the transfer portal. Parker becomes another notable addition as the staff looks to restock talent across the board, particularly on offense.

Arkansas recently added Sutton Smith from Memphis, giving the Razorbacks another experienced option in the backfield. Even so, Parker’s long-term outlook remains promising. Smith has just one year of eligibility remaining, opening the door for Parker to compete for meaningful snaps immediately and potentially position himself as a featured option moving forward.

Given Parker’s recruiting pedigree and production history, it would not be surprising to see Arkansas employ a running back-by-committee approach, allowing multiple playmakers to contribute while Parker acclimates to the system. Players of Parker’s caliber typically expect early opportunities, and his running style will fit seamlessly into the SEC.

Parker’s commitment continues what has been a busy stretch on the transfer trail for Arkansas, with more additions expected in the coming days. If his high school production and flashes at Michigan are any indication, the Razorbacks may have landed another key piece in their ongoing roster rebuild.